Farm Safety Week

(Le Mars) -- This week, September 17 - 21, marks National Farm Safety Week. A week devoted to the awareness of the many dangers on the farm. La Vonne Galles, local coordinator of Agri Safe of Plymouth County, a part of Floyd Valley Hospital, reminds farmers to know at all times where children are located. She says the grain trucks and wagons, and grain bins can often times be a "playground for children". Tractor roll-overs, according to Galles, still ranks as the top cause for farm related fatalities. Charles Schwab, Iowa State University Safety Specialist echos Galles' comments and says tractors with roll-over protection is a good life insurance policy.

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Schwab says agriculture, and specifically, farming ranks as one of the most dangerous and deadliest occupations.

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Galles says farmers need to keep all shields in place and to stop the machine before working on it to prevent entanglements. Galles reminds farmers that they should have their equipment properly marked with slow moving vehicle signs and amber flashing lights when traveling on the roadways. Since we have another dry year, Galles suggests farmers equip their combines with a fire extinguisher. She also asks farmers to take some breaks during the hectic harvest season. Listen to

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Because of the drought, there are many corn fields that are affected with aflatoxin. Galles says this year, farmers should wear a mask or a breathing apparatus when entering grain bins. Listen to

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Each year, there are more than 300 deaths due to farm-related accidents.